Parfrey’s Glen, Pewit’s Nest Open for 2021

Yes indeed, our area’s super popular Parfrey’s Glen & Pewit’s Nest State Natural Areas which were closed in April of last year, are once again open. (The DNR this morning is giving out mixed messages.) The photo above, taken just after 8 am this morning, is your first look of 2021.

Yesterday the confusion started as folks realized that all of the barriers had been removed and cars were in the lots, but there was no public announcement from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. In fact, as of late last night, the DNR’s own website still showed them as closed. I had reached out to the DNR’s Office of Communications, but as of now still have not received a reply. In fact, there is still no mention anywhere. However, when I visited Devil’s Lake State Park this morning, a ranger and another staff member together confirmed that they were once again open to the public. (I should add that at least one person who called the Wisconsin State Parks toll-free number this morning was told they are still closed!) Eventually, I imagine that will get sorted out.

Some Thoughts

Many people on our social media channels are expressing sadness, knowing that soon the wildlife will be chased out (I saw nesting wood ducks this morning), and much of the spring flowers and other plant life will be trampled. That soon people will scrape their names into the sandstone and climb the hills and cliffs even though it’s not allowed. I get that. It’s been this way for a long time now. Personally, I’m just frustrated that some folks at the DNR seems so unprepared. If this was intended to be a “soft opening” they should’ve known better. Social media will fix a soft opening in 10 seconds flat! Even I first found out on social media! So here we are. They are offering no public service announcements or education for the folks who will soon be rushing to these natural areas. They also are not leading with information on why Wisconsin has designated “Natural Areas” and how they are different from parks. They are not talking to the public today about what makes these amazing places unique and scientifically important. They are not supporting the reopenings with info about how to visit Parfrey’s Glen and Pewit’s nest with joy AND respect. They are not talking about how dogs are not allowed in Parfrey’s Glen. Opening these overused and abused properties after a year of closure is the perfect time to do this. In fact, it’s required. We all know Parfrey’s & Pewit’s are going to get trampled this weekend. What is the DNR going to do to mitigate the damage? Obviously, we’re not leading with education. How about law enforcement? Will, there be patrols on Saturday or will they be so overwhelmed at Devil’s Lake State Park that they won’t get away to check? I guess we’ll see in just a couple of days.